What to Wear for Your Engagement Session: A Photographer’s Guide

Hey there, lovebirds! One of the most common questions I get as a wedding photographer is:
“What should we wear for our engagement session?”

First of all—yes, it matters. The outfits you choose can affect the tone, feel, and overall aesthetic of your photos. But don’t stress! I’m here to make this easy. After years of photographing couples in every kind of setting, I’ve learned what works (and what doesn’t) to help you look and feel your best in front of the camera.

Let’s break it down.

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1. Start With Comfort, But Elevate It

You’re going to be moving, laughing, maybe sitting in the grass or walking down cobblestone streets. So yes, comfort is key. But your session is also a chance to dress up a little more than you normally would. Think: polished, not overdone.

💡 Pro Tip: If it feels like something you’d wear on a really special date night, you’re probably in the right zone.

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2. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Gone are the days of twin white shirts and jeans (phew). Instead, aim for coordinating colors and complementary tones. Earthy neutrals, soft pastels, jewel tones, and muted shades tend to photograph beautifully.

• Avoid neon or anything overly bright—it can create strange color casts.
• Stay away from super busy patterns, but texture is great (think linen, knits, soft denim, suede, lace).

💡 Color Palette Ideas:

• Blush, navy, and cream
• Rust, olive, and tan
• Charcoal, soft blue, and ivory

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3. Bring Two Looks: One Dressy, One Casual

I always suggest two outfits:

1. Something elevated – A flowy dress, a blazer or sport coat, slacks, nice shoes.
2. Something more relaxed – A cozy sweater, jeans, boots or sneakers.

This gives you two vibes in one session: romantic and natural.

💡 Bonus Tip: Start with the dressier outfit first while hair and makeup are fresh, and save the casual look for golden hour or sunset.

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4. Details Matter

• Clean, well-fitting clothes photograph so much better than anything overly loose or baggy.
• Press or steam clothes the night before.
• Polish nails (or go with clean natural). Your hands will be in close-up shots!
• Guys: empty your pockets (phones and keys are distracting in pants).

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5. Think About Location + Season

Are we shooting in a field at sunset? A cobblestone street in the city? The beach at sunrise?

Dress to complement the surroundings, not compete with them. A bold red dress might pop against a snowy landscape, while soft neutrals are perfect in a sunlit meadow.

💡 Winter Tip: Layers photograph beautifully—think scarves, jackets, boots, and knits.

💡 Summer Tip: Avoid clothes that show sweat. Breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are your friends.

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📷 A Few Bonus Tips from Behind the Lens

• Test your outfits: Try them on together. Snap a quick mirror selfie and see how everything flows.
• Move in them: Can you sit, walk, hug, spin, or dance comfortably? If not, try a different look.
• Wear what feels like you: The best photos happen when you’re confident and comfortable in your own skin.
• Bring comfy shoes: if there will be lots of walking between locations, an extra pair of sneakers can be useful.

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💬 Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, your engagement session is about celebrating your connection. Your outfits should enhance the story, not overshadow it. Trust your gut, trust your photographer (that’s me!), and lean into the joy of the moment. Want to see more engagement photos? Click here.

Still unsure what to wear? I’m always happy to look over outfit options or help you create a style board. We’re in this together—and I want you to love every single image.

📧 Reach out anytime if you want personalized wardrobe advice!